The district’s Python Elimination Program hired hunters from among more than 1,000 applicants to rid the Everglades of the invasive species that multiplies rapidly, has no natural predators, and decimates native wildlife.

Hunters are paid $8.25 per hour, up to eight hours a day, to hunt in the Everglades. Depending on the size of the snake caught, hunters can earn an extra $50 for pythons measuring up to 4 feet and $25 more for each additional foot in length. Eliminating a python nest with eggs is worth a $200 bonus.